Reduced to a loss of control on TV shows, hypnosis in fact has genuine therapeutic effectiveness. Indeed, many healthcare professionals recommend it to address the effects of DYS disorders and ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, with or without hyperactivity). For example, this discipline can help with low self-esteem and self-confidence, as well as stress, poor concentration and restlessness. But first, a few persistent misconceptions about hypnosis for children need to be tackled!
Misconception #1: Hypnosis can’t be used on children
FALSE.
On the contrary, children have a great imagination and put up fewer barriers than adults. Yet the success of a hypnosis session depends directly on this ability to let go. Without preconceptions, they allow themselves to be guided towards solutions for wellbeing, while remaining conscious throughout. Better still, they often enjoy the playful, pleasant nature of this approach.
While there is no minimum age for practising hypnosis, the effectiveness of a session for a child depends on their ability to express their desire to change: it’s only from around age 6 that they can make full use of the discipline’s potential. Before that age, the practitioner will need to guide them towards the solution, helping them recognise their feelings at every step.
Misconception #2: Hypnosis can’t do anything for “DYS” disorders
FALSE.
Hypnosis for children is used to tackle numerous conditions: enuresis (bedwetting), encopresis (faecal incontinence), sleep disorders, difficulties managing emotions or eating, and more. It also helps to treat the effects of DYS disorders – namely, low self-esteem and self-confidence. It also has an effect on behaviours linked to ADHD, such as restlessness, stress or poor attention.
Today, this discipline is increasingly being used to help children cope with DYS disorders (dyspraxia, dysgraphia, dyslexia, dyscalculia…). During the session, their unconscious mind is engaged to develop a learning strategy. At the same time, the practitioner takes advantage of this particular state of consciousness to introduce tools that build the child’s self-confidence.
Misconception #3: A parent must always be present during their child’s hypnosis session
FALSE.
For the hypnotherapist, the hypnotised child is at the heart of the session. Since their wellbeing is essential, it’s up to them to decide what’s best for them. They are free to ask their parents to stay or, on the contrary, to leave them alone. On this matter, there are no fixed rules, and no right or wrong choice.
Traditionally, the practitioner asks the child at the start of each session whether they want to be accompanied or not. If not, the parent will need to wait in the waiting room, for between 30 minutes and 1 hour, depending on the child’s age.
Don’t hesitate to request an appointment with one of our hypnotherapists: this practice, when well embraced in childhood, offers immediate results that will give your child a solid foundation for building their adult life. Note that sessions can be held remotely with ORA professionals – making everyday life easier for everyone, without compromising the effectiveness of the therapy.
